What is weighted blanket?

A weighted blanket is an especially heavy blanket that is used to aid sleep and reduce anxiety. Initially, weighted blankets were most commonly used as therapeutic tools to assist individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), dementia, and mental health conditions.

Weighted blankets are used in occupational therapy in an attempt to help individuals improve their emotional and physical regulation. Specifically, weighted blankets are used in a type of occupational therapy called "sensory integration therapy", which helps people with autism or other mental conditions focus on sensory experiences. Weighted blankets are just one of the many tools occupational therapists use to provide "deep-touch pressure," a form of physical stimulation that, according to experts, may help individuals regulate their emotions and behavior.

The main concern when considering a weighted blanket is to choose the appropriate weight because if the blanket is too light, it will just feel like a normal duvet, if instead, it is too heavy, it may feel uncomfortable. A weighted blanket should be about 10% of the person's body weight: this feels appropriate for about 97% of people. The blanket should also cover the body from the toes to the chin. When following the mentioned weight recommendation, if the weighted blanket weight doesn't feel right, it is much more likely for the blanket to be too heavy than too light.

Other studies have indicated that weighted blankets may reduce anxiety and, as a result, allow the wearer to fall asleep more quickly.